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Reflections

Screen and stage actress Sara Ramirez (B.F.A. '97, drama) won Tony and Outer Critics Circle awards in 2005 for her role as the Lady of the Lake in Monty Python's Spamalot on Broadway. She made her Broadway debut in Paul Simon's The Capeman, starred in the Gershwins' Fascinating Rhythm, for which she received an Outer Critics Circle nomination for best actress, and played Felicia in Broadway's A Class Act. Off-Broadway she was seen in The Vagina Monologues with Tovah Feldshuh and Suzanne Bertish. She currently guest stars on the ABC television series Grey's Anatomy.

Sara Ramirez

How does what you learned in Juilliard shape your daily life?

It reminds me of how important it is to be grateful for all the creative people I have the honor of working with.

Can you recall a specific Juilliard experience that resulted in an important insight?

Deb Lapidus opening my voice up to a higher range, in acting class. If it weren't for her, I don't think I would have the courage to sing some of the music I get to sing.

What do you remember most about your Juilliard audition?

I remember the part of the audition where they asked me to improvise within specific circumstances given to me. It seemed to go on forever. I remember wondering if I had put them to sleep, or what.

What do you remember about your first day as a Juilliard student?

Being nervous and feeling like I didn't know what to expect.

What's the biggest misconception about Juilliard alums?

I think the biggest misconception is that we're like robots.

Return to the Alumni Reflections index page.

What Juilliard teacher made the largest impact on you and what was the impact?

Eve Shapiro taught me to trust my instincts; she expanded my views on the types of characters I could play.

What would you say to a prospective Juilliard student who wasn't sure if this was the place for him/her?

I would say, "If you're interested in challenging yourself to the fullest and value stepping out of your comfort zone, then this is the place for you."

If you could change one thing that happened during your years at Juilliard, what would it be?

I wouldn't change a thing.

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